Death at the market. The story of the month

Long ago, when the wise King Solomon reigned, it happened that one of his subjects rushed to him into the throne room, completely distraught and pale. The poor man could hardly speak; gasping and trembling, he stood before his master.
"My dear Achmed," said the wise Solomon, "what has happened? Speak!"
"Ah, my lord, nothing, nothing of any consequence to you. But just as I was at the market, I saw Death! And he looked toward me, evil glittering in his eyes, and with his finger he pointed at me! Oh Lord, I do not want to die yet!"
Wise Solomon thought, then he said, "Take the fastest horse from my stable, Achmed, and ride it to Medina. If you hurry, you will be there before dark. Never will Death find you there."
Achmed kissed his master's feet and dashed away.
Solomon was glad to be able to help his servant.
Later that day, King Solomon himself set out for the market, as he liked to do. Disguised as a poor man, he walked among his subjects every day and listened to the conversations they had. Many of his wise resolutions had their origin in these walks. That day, as he walked through the market, he too saw Death. Without hesitation, the king went up to him.
"Death, you have frightened my servant badly today! Why did you have to look at him so crossly?"
"Oh Lord," said Death, "I didn't look at him crossly. I was just completely surprised to find him here, when I am supposed to be collecting him in Medina tonight."